Review of A New Theory of Serendipity: Nature, Emergence and Mechanism

The Holy Grail · Post by **The Holy Grail** » 15 Aug 2022, 03:29

[Following is an official OnlineBookClub.org review of "A New Theory of Serendipity: Nature, Emergence and Mechanism" by Quan-Hoang Vuong.]

4 out of 4 stars

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In the short time of human existence, our species has shown swift advancements in almost all aspects of life compared to all other species. We've moved from primitive ape-like forms and living in the wild to highly intelligent and civilized beings. We've also survived existential threats and mass extinctions that would have otherwise wiped us out.

But is all this just by chance? Various researchers suggest that it is because of serendipity that we have been able to achieve some of the things we've achieved. From major scientific discoveries to breakthroughs in war and success in business, serendipitous moments can't be left out of the equation. While the word "serendipity" in itself connotes luck, researchers have stated that it is not entirely just luck alone but also a bunch of other "enablers" that are involved. This includes alertness and being in the right state of mind, time and place. Realizing and harnessing these right conditions will place an individual at a high probability of encountering serendipitous moments, which in turn will be advantageous on multiple levels, including to the individual, society, or even organization.

This book, A New Theory of Serendipity: Nature, Emergence and Mechanism by Quan-Hoang Vuong, is distinct from other studies on serendipity in various aspects. Built from the author's previous works on the same topic, which focused on serendipity in the structural organization of businesses, the book further explores the nature of serendipity but from a different view. While serendipity is agreeably based on chance (or luck) and effort, several conditions spark such serendipitous moments. These, both environmental and cultural, place an individual at a high probability of encountering serendipitous moments. It can't be understated how much crucial serendipity is to our survival. It is, undeniably, a skill that we can harness in our favor against existential threats and use to advance ourselves, especially in research and innovation.

To be honest, I didn't know that serendipity is such a deeply researched phenomenon. I had previously only viewed it as another English term until I read this book. I've realized just how important serendipity is to science and business, and I've also learned how crucial it is to us in general. Reading this book, serendipity becomes more of a miracle — and, as this book states, it is a miracle that can be manipulated in our favor. I can't state just how much I now know from reading the book, and it has been an eye-opener.

While this study is almost flawless, there is a minor error that I hope will be fixed, and I've provided that privately in the PRQ. I don't think there is any negative aspect I can think of (at least from my perspective). Therefore, I rate this book 4 out of 4 stars. I don't see why I should remove any stars. The editing is professional save for the minor error as stated prior. I recommend this book to readers who want to know more about serendipity from a researcher's point of view.

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A New Theory of Serendipity: Nature, Emergence and Mechanism
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Eric Appiah · Post by **Eric Appiah** » 16 Aug 2022, 04:03

A crucial read for everyone hoping to use serendipity to improve their lives and the state of the world.

Essy moonlight11 · Post by **Essy moonlight11** » 16 Aug 2022, 14:41

I honestly admire the prowess of the reviewer. He makes the book sound interesting and captivating to read. Great work and I'm looking forward to reading the book.